FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – March 27, 2025 – Yahya Yusuf (Minneapolis Washburn High School) and Ty Nelson (Brainerd High School) have been named this year’s Stacy Robinson Leadership Award winners by the Minnesota Chapter of the National Football Foundation. 

Yusuf and Nelson are set to be honored during a private ceremony at the Minnesota Vikings’ TCO Performance Center this spring. The April 13 event will be taped and broadcast during the Minnesota Football Honors television show, which is scheduled to air later this summer. 

“Our chapter is thrilled to honor Yahya and Ty for the impact they have made as leaders in their local communities,” said Todd Fultz, President of the Minnesota Chapter of the National Football Foundation. “Both of them were positive role models for the younger generation of student-athletes. The example they set on the field, in the classroom and community inspired everyone around them. Yahya and Ty embody the values of this award and we can’t wait to honor them during this year’s Minnesota Football Honors broadcast.”

Here are quick snapshot biographies for each award winner: 

Yahya Yusuf - Minneapolis Washburn High School

Yahya Yusuf’s leadership skills are felt across Minneapolis Washburn High School. Yusuf, a three-time captain, was a key leader and communicator while playing along the offensive and defensive lines. He also significantly improved the school community and climate while serving as the school’s Student Council President. Off the gridiron, Yahya fed the needy, helped repopulate rainbow trout, worked at youth camps and volunteered at a local Islamic Center. He also created school programs that made a difference in the lives of countless students. Academically, Yusuf shined in the classroom while taking rigorous advanced IB courses. Yusuf's well-rounded influence will resonate for generations to come.

Quote from Washburn coach Ryan Galindo: “Character, discipline and academics are another huge aspect to this young man. This is the area where Yahya really separates himself from all others. He is the biggest leader in the school. All of the kids look up to him, and he owns this role in our school community.”

Ty Nelson: Brainerd High School

Ty Nelson's influence reaches throughout the Brainerd community. Nelson, a quarterback, safety and tight end, was actively involved in many academic and community service activities. Ty was a member of the Warrior Football Leadership Council for three years. Within that leadership role, he was in charge of organizing team events, helping with community service projects and participating in leadership training. Nelson played a pivotal role in the organization of the Special Olympics Polar Plunge. Ty was also a member of the Brainerd Unified Group, where he worked closely with special needs students. In that role, he mentored a student for three years. Outside of those activities, Nelson volunteered at the American Legion and was a youth group leader at his church. Nelson is known across the Brainerd community for his positive energy, work ethic, determination and giving spirit. 

Quote from Brainerd coach Jason Freed: “In today’s day and age, leadership is becoming more and more important and Ty relishes the opportunity to lead and take on the challenges that come with it. One of Ty’s greatest attributes is his ability to connect and forge relationships with people. I have seen him work and connect with so many different people, backgrounds, etc. I saw this everyday as a leader on our team, but also serving as a Unified Warrior working with the Special Olympics, as well as his day to day interactions with teachers, coaches and students within the high school.”

The Stacy Robinson Leadership Award honors the late Stacy Robinson, a St. Paul Central graduate who left a strong legacy of community leadership and excellence in athletics. 

To view a statewide map of past and present Minnesota Football Honors Award Winners, visit this site. 

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About the Minnesota Chapter of the National Football Foundation:

The Minnesota Chapter of The National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame is a local non-profit organization whose mission is to promote amateur football’s ability to develop leadership, sportsmanship, competitive spirit and academic excellence in Minnesota’s young people. The Minnesota Chapter recognizes legendary football icons, college football Hall of Famers and Minnesota’s top high school and college football scholar-athletes. For more information, visit www.nffmn.org, or Facebook (@MNFootballHonors) and Twitter (@NFFMN).

Contact:

Todd Fultz, President - Minnesota Chapter of the National Football Foundation

Phone: (612)-325-5500

Media Contact:

Daniel House, Director of Media Relations and Content

Minnesota Chapter of The National Football Foundation

Email: daniel@nffmn.org